The Lovitches‘ bird sanctuary home in Durham, Maine is a testament to their love for birds and dedication to creating a safe haven for them. Situated on 78 acres of woods and wetlands, the couple knew they had found the perfect location to build their dream home. As biologists and owners of Freeport Wild Bird Supply, they wanted to live where the birds already thrived. With the help of architects Matt Maiello and Austin Smith, they designed a modern abode that seamlessly blends into the natural landscape, offering panoramic views of their bird-filled garden.
One of the challenges the Lovitches faced was making their home bird-safe. In the United States, millions of birds are killed each year in collisions with windows, mistaking reflections for open space. To address this issue, the Lovitches opted for glass with acid-etched stripes that break up reflections and make the windows visible to birds. They also installed lower windows with ultraviolet reflective patterns that are transparent to the human eye but visible to birds. Despite these precautions, a few birds still collided with the glass, prompting the couple to cover the windows with adhesive film scattered with white dots. This temporary solution proved effective in preventing further incidents.
The efforts of the Lovitches did not go unnoticed, as Bird-Safe Maine recognized their home as „Maine’s first bird-safe residential building“ and honored them with a residential excellence award. The couple’s dedication to creating a safe environment for birds has not only benefited the local avian population but has also provided them with a front-row seat to a diverse array of bird species. With over 150 species sighted on their property, the Lovitches enjoy a daily spectacle of birds chirping, diving, and soaring around their home.
For the Lovitches, their home is more than just a place to live – it is a sanctuary where they can connect with nature and observe the beauty of birds up close. Sitting in their viewing corner with binoculars in hand, they are reminded of how they first met as young biologists studying avian behavior. Now, two decades later, they have created a space where they can continue their passion for birds without having to leave the comfort of their home. The Lovitches‘ bird sanctuary is a testament to the power of conservation and the joy that comes from living in harmony with nature.